Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry expressed optimism regarding a proposed truce and the liberation of captives in Gaza, indicating that Egypt awaits responses from Israel and Hamas, as reported on Monday.
Concerned by the potential of an Israeli incursion in Rafah, where a significant populace has sought refuge near the border, Egypt has intensified efforts to rekindle stalled negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
Teaming up with Qatar and the U.S., Egypt has been at the forefront of endeavors to broker a ceasefire deal for the conflict. This proposal encompasses the release of Israeli hostages seized by Hamas on October 7 and the liberation of Palestinian detainees held by Israel.
Shoukry, participating in a panel at a World Economic Forum gathering in Riyadh, conveyed hope that the proposal considers the perspectives of both parties, striving to elicit moderation. He stressed the urgency of a final decision, emphasizing the imperative of averting further loss of life.
Hamas acknowledged receipt of Israel’s stance on the latest phased ceasefire initiative on Saturday, pledging to review it before formulating a response.
A delegation from Hamas was slated to convene in Cairo on Monday to advance discussions.
Shoukry’s remarks in Riyadh were echoed by Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, who criticized Israel’s government for obstructing a two-state solution.
Safadi contended that such an impasse undermines prospects for enduring peace, cautioning against exacerbating Gaza’s plight under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership.
